Plague and Pestilence: A History of Infectious Disease by Linda Jacobs Altman.
A review of this book, from School Library Journal, includes the following:
"In this fascinating overview of plagues, Altman traces the history of bacterial and viral diseases from the Middle Ages to the present day. She utilizes an interesting technique of linking the past to the present by opening each chapter with a historical account of a deadly disease, followed by a discussion of scientific belief and superstition at that time, and modern science's explanations for the occurrence.
"In addition, she objectively discusses the hysteria often accompanying these outbreaks and explains how scientific process gradually replaced superstition. Succinct sketches of notable scientists and their contributions to scientific research and interesting anecdotes, such as the story of Typhoid Mary, are also included.
"Altman's study comes full circle at the end of the book as she likens early AIDS hysteria to the reactions caused by the syphilis epidemic in the 1600s. Ultimately, she manages to incorporate a brief history of infectious disease, scientific research, and popular beliefs while sprinkling intriguing tidbits throughout."
Laura Glaser, Euless Junior High School, TX
Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
Credits
Book cover image, courtesy Amazon.com
